Storms can leave severe, often unseen damage on your roof, compromising the safety of your home. After a storm passes, the first step is assessing any damage that may have occurred, starting with a comprehensive storm damage roof inspection. At Austin Roofing & Water Damage | WDR, we understand that knowing exactly what to look for after a storm can be overwhelming.
This guide walks you through critical steps to inspect your roof after storm damage, what issues to prioritize, and when to call in a trusted local roofing contractor for expert help. A free roof inspection is essential to maintain property safety and value.
What to Check First After Storm Damage
Before climbing up to assess damage, remember that safety always comes first. If there is extensive damage or you’re unsure about the roof’s stability, it’s best to leave it to a professional. Here’s a checklist of initial steps you can take from the ground:
- Shingles: Look for missing or visibly damaged shingles from a safe distance. Missing shingles or those that appear curled or cracked can lead to leaks if left unattended.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Check for clogs, dents, or other signs of impact from hail, as these can affect drainage and add weight to the roof.
- Visible Dents or Cracks: Dents, particularly from hail, are often found on metal parts like gutters or flashing. These can weaken over time and cause leaks.
Types of Damage to Look For
- Hail Damage: Look for round dents or cracks after a hail storm, especially in softer roof parts like shingles.
- Wind Damage: Check for missing shingles, bent flashing, and displaced gutters.
- Heavy Rain Damage: Look for damp spots, mold, or other signs of leaks inside the home.
These are some of the most common types of storm damage and must be promptly addressed to maintain your roof’s integrity.
Preparing your roof for different seasons can prevent damage and make inspections easier. Learn more in our guide on 6 Tips to Prepare Your Roof in Austin, Texas, for Fall and Winter.
Key Steps in a Professional Roof Inspection After Storm Damage
When you call in a professional for a roof inspection, they’ll thoroughly assess the roof’s exterior and interior aspects. Here’s what typically happens during a roof inspection:
Conducting a storm damage assessment following severe weather events is crucial to evaluate potential roof damage and ensure homeowners are aware of both exterior and interior impacts due to leaks.
Exterior Roof Inspection
- Shingle Condition: A roofing expert checks for cracked, missing, or loose shingles, common signs of severe weather impact. Shingle issues can lead to more severe problems if water infiltrates the underlayment.
- Flashing and Seals: Inspectors will carefully examine the flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights to see if the storm caused any dislodgment or damage.
- Gutter and Drainage Check: Gutters are essential for directing water away from your home. Inspectors will check for hail damage, dents, and blockages that could disrupt the drainage system.
Interior Roof Inspection
- Attic Check: Inside your home, professionals look for water stains, leaks, damp spots, and mold in the attic, which could be signs of roof damage.
- Structural Integrity: Inspectors assess the interior structure, examining for signs of sagging or cracks that might signal damage from heavy winds or water infiltration. Documenting these issues is crucial for an insurance claim.
At Austin Roofing & Water Damage | WDR, our roof inspectors follow these steps meticulously, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation to protect your home.
For more about what to expect, check out our article on Regular Roof Inspections to understand the importance of routine checks for long-term protection.
When to Call a Local Roofing Contractor
While some storm damage is easy to see, other signs may be subtle or hidden. Here’s when you should call in a local roofing contractor for a closer look:
- Significant Shingle Loss or Extensive Dents: If you notice large areas with missing or damaged shingles, it’s time to get professional help.
- Persistent Leaks or Water Damage Inside: Water stains, peeling paint, or mold in your home’s interior are signs of roof issues that need immediate attention.
- Structural Issues: Sagging or other visible structural problems indicate serious storm damage that requires an expert.
Working with a reputable hail damage roofing contractor or wind damage roofing specialist can ensure your roof gets the attention it needs. Choosing a trusted roofing contractor like Austin Roofing & Water Damage | WDR, with extensive experience in storm-related inspections and repairs, will protect your home and provide peace of mind.
If you’re unsure whether your roof needs repair or replacement, our Roof Repair vs. Replacement post can help you decide on the best approach.
Common Roof Damage Signs After Different Types of Storms
Knowing what kind of storm damage to look for is important for both inspections and repairs. Here are some typical signs of roof damage by storm type:
- Wind Damage to Roof: Missing or lifted shingles, bent flashing, and loose gutters are all common signs of wind damage. High winds can lift shingles, creating entry points for water.
- Hail Damage: Hailstones often leave round dents in shingles or metal elements, making them more susceptible to future damage. It is essential to contact your insurance company after identifying hail damage to potentially cover the costs of repairs.
- Heavy Rain Damage: Rain can saturate the underlayment, leading to water damage, leaks, or mold. Look for damp areas or signs of water stains in the attic.
Identifying these signs early is essential to prevent further deterioration of your roof, which can lead to costly repairs or even roof replacement.
Benefits of a Professional Roof Storm Damage Inspection
Professional expertise is key to roof inspections after storm damage. Here are the primary benefits of a professional inspection:
- Thorough Assessment: Professionals provide a comprehensive roof inspection report detailing all areas of damage, from the exterior shingles to the interior support structures.
- Accurate Insurance Documentation: If you need to file a claim, a professional inspection report is essential for providing clear evidence of storm-related damage. This accurate documentation is crucial for navigating insurance claims, ensuring you have the necessary proof to secure financial support for repairs.
- Proactive Repairs: By identifying and addressing damage early, professionals can help prevent minor issues from turning into major, costly repairs.
From minor roof storm damage repair to significant storm damage roof repair, working with a professional can save you time and stress by catching and addressing damage promptly.
To understand how an inspection can help with insurance claims, read our post on Roofing Damage Insurance Claims for valuable tips on filing successfully.
FAQs about Roof Inspections After Storm Damage
What is considered storm damage to a roof?
Storm damage includes missing shingles, dents or cracks from hail, and leaks caused by heavy rain.
How to assess roof damage?
Start by inspecting from the ground for visible damage, such as missing shingles or debris. For a thorough assessment, call a professional roofing contractor.
What is evidence of wind damage to a roof?
Evidence of wind damage includes lifted or torn shingles, bent flashing, or lodged debris in gutters and shingles.
How much damage does a roof need to be replaced?
Roof replacement may be necessary when there’s significant shingle loss, structural damage, or persistent leaks that repairs can’t resolve.
Regarding roof storm damage, timely inspections and repairs are essential to prevent further damage and protect your home. At Austin Roofing & Water Damage | WDR, we understand the importance of thorough roof inspections and storm damage repairs. Whether you need an inspection or a full report for insurance, our team has the expertise to keep your roof safe and sound. Contact us today to schedule your professional roof inspection, and rest assured that your home is in trusted hands.